What is SKYWARN?

SKYWARN is a concept developed in the early 1970s that was intended to promote a cooperative effort between the National Weather Service and communities. The emphasis of the effort is often focused on the storm spotter, an individual who takes a position near their community and reports wind gusts, hail size, rainfall, and cloud formations that could signal a developing tornado. The organization of spotters and the distribution of warning information lies with the National Weather Service or with an emergency management agency within the community.

The basis for, and/or verification of, many severe weather warnings, issued by the NWS, may be directly attributed to SKYWARN storm spotters.  Their reports are considered highly credible by NWS personnel, and are regarded highly.  They assist the NWS in performing our top mission, which is to prepare and distribute warnings and forecasts of impending severe weather.

SKYWARN in Parker County

During and/or in anticipation of severe weather in Parker County, and at the request of the National Weather Service, local amateur radio operators deploy to affected areas and report ground-based conditions directly to the National Weather Service office in Fort Worth.

When requested by the National Weather Service, a SKYWARN net may be activated. Parker County does not activate R.A.C.E.S. during severe weather. All properly trained observers are encouraged to participate in the net.

Frequencies: 147.040 primary (pl 110.9), 146.900 (pl 110.9) backup

SKYWARN Coordinator: Allen Beadel KB5AB
Emergency Management Coordinator: Shawn Scott
Assistant Emergency Management Coordinator: Janice Stroud
Emergency Operations Center Amateur Call: KE5RKD

Training

SKYWARN spotters in Parker County undergo a continuing training program. Each year, the National Weather Service sponsors a storm spotting class. Completion of the class is highly recommended for anyone who wishes to participate in local SKYWARN nets.